blockchain

noun

block·​chain ˈbläk-ˌchān How to pronounce blockchain (audio)
: a digital database containing information (such as records of financial transactions) that can be simultaneously used and shared within a large decentralized, publicly accessible network
also : the technology used to create such a database
The technology at the heart of bitcoin and other virtual currencies, blockchain is an open, distributed ledger that can record transactions between two parties efficiently and in a verifiable and permanent way. — Marco Iansiti and Karim R. Lakhani

Examples of blockchain in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The financial world is like a high-speed roller coaster these days—new tech like AI, blockchain and fintech innovations keep adding twists and turns. — Expert Panel®, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025 While it’s not known exactly what form such a strategic reserve would take, nor whether the government would seek to buy crypto for the stockpile with taxpayer dollars — a move that would theoretically require approval from Congress — blockchain enthusiasts cheered the news. — Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 3 Mar. 2025 Those that do will transform blockchain from a punchline into a bedrock of the next phase in digital infrastructure. — Matt Robison, Newsweek, 25 Feb. 2025 Verify, a blockchain platform that helps media companies track how their content is being used online, was launched by Fox Corp. early last year. — Sara Fischer, Axios, 25 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for blockchain

Word History

First Known Use

2011, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of blockchain was in 2011

Rhymes for blockchain

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Cite this Entry

“Blockchain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/blockchain. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

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